Women are more likely than men to develop osteoporosis for two main reasons: Women have smaller and thinner bones, and estrogen, a hormone that protects bones, drops significantly around menopause. In fact, a woman can lose up to 20 percent of her bone density in the five to seven years following menopause.

Several risk factors have been identified that can indicate an increased risk for osteoporosis. You may want to discuss a bone densitometry test with your doctor if you have one or more of the following risk factors for osteoporosis:

Small, thin frame or excessive thinness

Personal or family history of broken bones as an adult

Diet low in calcium

Smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption

Inactive lifestyle

Low testosterone levels in men

Advanced age

Anorexia nervosa

Long-term use of certain medications, such as prolonged steroid therapy

Home safety and injury prevention

Osteoporosis or low bone mass makes you more susceptible to injury, specifically broken bones. Here are some tips to keep your home safe and limit your risk for falls: